Marriage split forces star to end ownership affair

RUSSELL CROWE'S recent split with wife Danielle Spencer appears to have been the catalyst for his decision to sell out of the Rabbitohs.

Crowe advised South Sydney officials several weeks ago he was considering selling his half of the 75 per cent stake in the club that the actor purchased with business partner Peter Holmes a Court in 2006.

The notification followed revelations on October 15 that he and Spencer's marriage had broken up after nine years.

It has been reported that a divorce settlement could cost Crowe $25 million but he indicated on Sunday that scaling back his involvement with Souths was more about trying to save the marriage than raise cash.

In an email confirming the decision to Fairfax Media columnist and Channel Nine reporter Danny Weidler, Crowe said he was still as passionate as ever about the Rabbitohs.

''My family situation has changed,'' Crowe said. ''I have to address personally how busy I have made my life outside of my actual job. It doesn't change anything at the club level. I will always be a South Sydney supporter and member, as I have been, man and boy, South Sydney 'til I die.

''If I have any chance of keeping my family together, I have to simplify my life where I can.''

Holmes a Court, who has taken a back seat at the Rabbitohs in recent seasons, praised Crowe's efforts to help turn the club around since 2006. However, it is unclear the 37.5 per cent stake purchased by Holmes a Court after Rabbitohs members voted in 2006 to privatise the club will also be sold.

''Russell has today announced that this will be his last season as an owner of the Rabbitohs,'' Holmes a Court said. ''There are so many great things that he has done over the last six seasons that will never be seen.

''One thing that will always stay with the club is his pursuit of excellence in everything we do, a drive that has to be seen to be believed.

''This passion and focus is now in the club's DNA and it won't ever leave. All praise for him: for his investment, his passion, his time and his love of the Rabbitohs. I consider myself fortunate to have been by his side for some of the ride.''

NRL officials were unaware of Crowe's decision until contacted on Sunday but had no concerns about Souths' financial situation. ''We haven't had any official notification about that at all,'' NRL interim CEO Shane Mattiske said. ''South Sydney over the last six years have become one of the leading clubs in terms of membership and sponsorship.''

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